A concrete driveway can last between 20 to 30 years. How well it was installed and maintained are the primary factors that affect its lifespan. Sealing, patching, and cleaning the concrete surface regularly all add up.
However, there are also factors that affect its longevity. These include improper installation, poor drainage, and heavy use. A poorly maintained driveway can become a safety hazard for most properties. Keeping a concrete driveway in top shape is important to minimise such issues.
For this post, we’ll share with you tips on maintaining a concrete driveway, keeping it protected, and knowing when you’ll need a replacement.
Tips to Maintain a Concrete Driveway
These are the main tips to follow when maintaining a concrete driveway:
Sealing
Keeping your driveway sealed can help increase its lifespan. This is because sealing helps in protecting the surface of the concrete from water and other contaminants that can damage its integrity.
Most homeowners seal their concrete driveways at least once every 2 years. You can also ask an expert for their recommendation.
Patching
No matter how much you take care of your concrete driveway, the time will come when it will develop cracks and other damage. Repairing these issues as soon as they happen is crucial to prevent further deterioration.
You can patch your concrete surfaces by filling the cracks with a concrete patching compound or using a concrete repair kit.
Want to know if a concrete driveway need rebar? Read our blog about it today.
Regular Cleaning
Regularly cleaning your driveway is the key to making it look good and last for many years. You can hire a pressure washer to have it cleaned, or you can do it yourself.
Make sure you use a mild detergent when cleaning your driveway. It would also be best if you used a degreaser to get rid of stains and oil.
How Do I Protect My Concrete Driveway?
One of the best ways to protect your driveway is to minimise heavy vehicle traffic. Try to avoid parking heavy equipment or vehicles on your driveway. A driveway that constantly experiences heavy traffic can lead to cracks and damage.
You can also protect your driveway by constantly inspecting and maintaining it. Following the tips above will benefit your concrete surfaces for years to come.
When Should I Replace My Concrete Driveway?
You should replace your concrete driveway once its foundation has lifted or has numerous cracks or holes on its surface. A foundation that has lifted can make your driveway dangerous for both vehicles and people, while cracks can lead to drainage issues.
Make sure you address these problems as soon as possible before they get worse.Is a concrete driveway a good idea? Check out our blog to find out.